Traditionally we applied for our credit cards by mail. Many of the offers that we receive through the mail tell us that we are already approved. Nonetheless, you still have to wait for several weeks before you get an answer.
Of course, those days are gone forever. The internet has changed the world that we live in, including the way that we apply for those pesky pieces of plastic. Now, you apply for your card online. You receive an answer in minutes. You no longer have to wait for several weeks.
You won’t have any problems for being approved if you already have good credit. We already know that those cards have both the best terms and rates. It follows that before you apply online you should be aware what your credit score is. It is easy to go online and get a free credit report and check for yourself.
Your first step is to check your credit score. The second is to fix anything that you can to improve your report. You should realize that being turned down for a card online will affect your credit score. It also affects your credit offers in the future.
After checking and fixing your credit score you can apply online for a card and receive an immediate answer. All of the credit card companies will ask questions of a personal nature including your name, social security number, age, income, employment and so on.
Before you fill out any of this the most important thing is to go over the terms and conditions with a fine tooth comb. Check the APR and make sure that there are not going to be any surprises.
When you are finished you will receive a decision within minutes. Most websites will let you know immediately.